Donkeys 16 Month 2012 Calendar. The Donkey is essentially a domesticated horse and is a member of the Horse family. It was originally called an ass but the term Donkey has been adopted by most cultures around the world today. Donkeys have been used over the centuries as transporters and it really is only with the evolution of the steam train and subsequently diesel/electricity that these creatures are now redundant from a life of work. Donkeys are very much different in character to that of a horse. These creatures have a more loyal aspect about them often; they will often follow their owners without the need for a rope. Nowadays the Donkey is almost redundant and as such the number in existence has fallen rapidly since the 1800's and most are now kept as pets.